Little Tunny Fishing Adventures with Rich Adler

Little Tunny (Euthynnus alletteratus) belongs to the order Perciformes and family Scombridae. Also known as Bonita, False Albacore, or Little Tuna, this smaller member of the tuna family is distinguished by its streamlined body, dark wavy lines on the back, and silvery sides. In West Palm Beach waters this June, these fast-swimming predators provide excellent sport fishing opportunities for both novice and experienced anglers.

Little Tunny Overview

Little Tunny represents one of the most accessible members of the tuna family for recreational anglers. These schooling fish are prized for their speed, fighting ability, and willingness to take both live and artificial baits. Their smaller size compared to other tunas makes them perfect for light tackle fishing while still delivering the characteristic power and endurance that tuna species are famous for.

Little Tunny Habitat and Distribution

These pelagic fish inhabit onshore, nearshore, and offshore waters throughout the Atlantic. Around West Palm Beach, they're commonly found near temperature breaks, current edges, and areas with abundant baitfish. They prefer warm waters and are most active during summer months when water temperatures rise and prey species are plentiful.

Little Tunny Size and Weight

Adult Little Tunny typically measure between 24 and 48 inches in length, with weights ranging from 5 to 15 pounds. The fish caught during recent West Palm Beach charters have averaged around 15-19 inches, representing younger specimens that still provide excellent sport on appropriate tackle.

Little Tunny Diet and Behavior

These aggressive predators feed primarily on small fish, squid, and crustaceans. They hunt in schools, often driving baitfish to the surface where feeding frenzies create excellent fishing opportunities. Their migratory nature means they move with seasonal temperature changes and food availability, typically heading south during fall and winter months.

Little Tunny Spawning Season

Spawning occurs in warm offshore waters during spring and summer months. During this period, they form large aggregations and become more aggressive in their feeding behavior, making them easier targets for anglers using the right techniques and locations.

Little Tunny Fishing Techniques

Effective methods include trolling with small spoons, cedar plugs, or feathers at moderate speeds. Live bait fishing with pilchards or sardines works well when schools are located. Light spinning tackle with small jigs can be deadly when fish are feeding on the surface. In June around West Palm Beach, anglers find success near offshore reefs and temperature breaks where these fish concentrate to feed.

Little Tunny Is It Good to Eat?

While edible, Little Tunny has dark, strong-flavored meat that requires proper preparation. The flesh is high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids but can be quite oily. Many anglers prefer catch and release for this species, though when kept, they're best prepared smoked, grilled with strong seasonings, or used for sushi when extremely fresh.

Little Tunny Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the best bait for Little Tunny?

A: Live pilchards, sardines, and small ballyhoo work excellently. Artificial lures like small spoons, cedar plugs, and feathers are also very effective when trolling.

Q: Where can I find Little Tunny near West Palm Beach?

A: Look for them near offshore reefs, temperature breaks, and current edges. They often follow baitfish schools and can be found from nearshore to several miles offshore.

Q: Is Little Tunny good to eat?

A: The meat is edible but quite strong and oily. Many anglers practice catch and release, though when kept, smoking or grilling with strong seasonings works best.

Q: When is the best time to catch Little Tunny?

A: Summer months like June are prime time in West Palm Beach when warm waters and abundant baitfish create ideal conditions for these fast-swimming predators.